The festival of the kings, or Epiphany, is celebrated on January 6th.
As well as celebrating the day the Magi visited the Christ Child, and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, Epiphany marks the end of the 12 days of Christmas; the 12 days, which symbolise not only the 12 months of the year but also the 12 apostles of Christ.
During the lead up to Epiphany, the Magi santons are gradually moved closer to the Nativity, and on January 6th, are placed around Jesus’ manger.
Of course, no celebration in France would be complete without food, and Epiphany is no different; la Galette des Rois is a sweet cake, made from two round pieces of puff pastry which have a frangipane filling sandwiched between them. In addition, a charm is placed inside the galette, and whoever receives it will have prosperity and luck throughout the coming year. The galette is served with a golden paper crown.
In Provence, instead of a galette, they have le gâteau des rois – a brioche ring, decorated with sugar and candied fruits. As with the galette, a charm is baked into the brioche, and it is served with a crown.
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